I think it's just unlucky that the models you have been working on are white. I agree the effect is pronounced on white but not unfixable. I think that this is more realistic to sunlit environments. Some washing out of color in direct sunlight is normal. Also the reflections should be under your complete control using the spec.
It may help your normals if you add them in the spec rgb and alpha channels. Either darkening or lightening the reflection in those areas to help the normals stand out a bit more.
No matter what the issues this CS turned out really great. I was hoping you were getting more comfortable with the changes. It's very frustrating when things get changed up from what your used to.